Should You Be Scheduling Deep Cleanings?

We all know the importance of scheduling a trip to the dentist every six months for a routine cleaning. While these standard dental visits are crucial for maintaining your oral health, some patients require a deeper cleaning to keep their smile in tip-top condition. Read more about whether or not you should be scheduling deep cleanings.

What Is a Deep Cleaning?

During a typical dental cleaning, your hygienist focuses on removing plaque from the surface of your teeth just up to the gumline. Deep cleanings, on the other hand, are a little more intensive, as the name suggests. Also referred to as scaling and planing, deep cleanings target plaque, tartar, and bacteria that lays below the gum line and around your tooth roots. Your provider will use special tools and techniques to clean those hard-to-reach areas and smooth out the roots of your teeth, making it more difficult for bacteria to stick to those surfaces.

Who Needs Deep Cleanings?

Not everyone requires deep cleanings. They are usually recommended only for patients who are showing signs of gum disease. Whether you are in the early stages of gingivitis or you have more advanced periodontal disease, deep cleanings are extremely effective in mitigating the side effects of gum disease, preventing tooth loss, and minimizing future damage.

How Often Do You Need a Deep Cleaning?

The frequency of deep cleanings will vary from patient to patient, as they are typically scheduled only as needed. If you have gum disease, you may need to get a deep cleaning every three to six months. Consult with your dentist to determine the best plan for your particular needs.

Deep Dental Cleanings in North Richland Hills, TX

When your teeth and gums need a little extra TLC, our team at NRH Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry is here to provide quality care. If you think you would benefit from a deep cleaning, schedule an appointment today to get more information!

5 Foods to Improve Your Oral Health!

Good oral health is vital for overall well-being, and a healthy diet plays a crucial role in maintaining strong teeth and gums. While regular brushing and flossing are important, incorporating certain foods into your diet can significantly enhance your oral health. In this blog, we’re sharing five delicious and nutritious foods to improve your oral health that we encourage you to try!

1. Crunchy Fruits & Vegetables

Apples, carrots, and celery are excellent choices of fruits and vegetables to eat due to their natural crunch. Chewing these foods stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away harmful bacteria and neutralizes acids in the mouth. The fibrous texture also acts as a natural toothbrush, gently scrubbing away plaque and debris.

2. Dairy Products

Milk, cheese, and yogurt are rich in calcium, which promotes strong teeth and jawbone density. These dairy products also contain casein, a protein that helps to repair tooth enamel.

3. Leafy Greens

Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are packed with essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, folic acid, and vitamin B. These nutrients strengthen enamel, fight gum inflammation, and help prevent oral infections. Incorporating leafy greens into your meals is a smart choice for maintaining healthy teeth and gums and overall good health!

4. Green & Black Teas

If you drink tea, green and black teas are great for your oral health! These teas contain compounds called polyphenols that suppress the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth and reduce bad breath and inhibit the formation of plaque.

5. Nuts & Seeds

Almonds, nuts, and sesame seeds are rich in calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals essential for maintaining strong teeth. Chewing nuts and seeds promote saliva production, which aids in cleaning the mouth and neutralizing acids.

Improve Your Oral Health at North Richland Hills Dentistry

Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond brushing and flossing. It’s also impacted by what you eat! By incorporating these five foods into your daily diet and maintaining regular dental check-ups with a dentist like Dr. Desai, you can enjoy the benefits of strong teeth and gums. To learn more ways to improve your oral health, get in touch with our office!